Inspired by Isaac Asimov’s work, this techno-thriller stars Will Smith as Del Spooner, a mid-21st century Chicago cop investigating the murder of a scientist. Wary of technology, Spooner’s not the perfect man for the job, but he takes it on anyway, aided by expert Dr. Susan Calvin (Bridget Moynahan). When Spooner discovers that an android, Sonny (Alan Tudyk) may be the culprit, he realizes the entire human race could be at the mercy of machines.

I, Robot (2004) was a really great popcorn movie. The actor’s performances were pretty good for this type of movie. The movie visuals were stunning, including Will Smith’s pecs (wow). However, the soundtrack accompanying Sonny’s last walk was too over-the-top and I burst out laughing–I admit that I’m not really into AI lore or at least I don’t take it too seriously. Nevertheless, I, Robot is great rental.

Eddie Murphy talks to the animals once again in this well-loved family comedy. This time, it’s up to the good doctor to defend the habitat of a lone female bear, Ava (voiced by Lisa Kudrow), and introduce her to a suitable (if intellectually challenged) mate (voiced by Steve Zahn). Adults will enjoy the sly humor of Issac Hayes playing a possum; kids will love the world-class animatronics.

I watched Dr. Dolittle 2 (2001) because the kids wanted to see it. They love Raven and Kyla Pratt. We saw the first installment a couple weeks ago. Raven’s part was somewhat larger in this movie than the first, which the kids liked although Kyla was mostly m.i.a. I can’t really rave about the movie but it wasn’t too bad.